How to Make Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Discover the best Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella recipe—juicy, cheesy, and perfect for a comforting homemade dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. This dish combines the hearty goodness of ground meat with a rich, gooey mozzarella center, creating a delightful surprise with every slice. Whether it’s for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this stuffed meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser with flavors that warm your soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Savory and Cheesy Fusion: The mozzarella center melts to creamy perfection, blending beautifully with the seasoned meat for a mouthwatering experience.
• Comfort Food Classic with a Twist: This stuffed meatloaf takes the familiar and beloved comfort food to a whole new level with an exciting cheesy surprise inside.
• Simple Ingredients, Incredible Flavor: No complicated pantry staples here—just straightforward, fresh ingredients that pack a flavorful punch.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this meatloaf makes a hearty and impressive centerpiece.
• Easy to Customize: You can tweak the seasonings or add veggies based on your preferences to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple yet essential, with each ingredient chosen to bring out the best in flavor, texture, and color. Everything comes together seamlessly for a perfect meatloaf every time.

• Ground Beef: The foundation for a juicy base, lean but with enough fat to keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh or shredded mozzarella creates that delicious gooey center everyone loves.
• Breadcrumbs: Used to bind the meat mixture and provide structure without drying it out.
• Eggs: Act as a natural binder, keeping everything together and adding moisture.
• Onion and Garlic: Freshly chopped to enhance flavor with aromatic depth and a touch of sweetness.
• Tomato Sauce or Ketchup: Adds a layer of tangy sweetness, perfect for glazing the top as it bakes.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that complement both the meat and the mozzarella perfectly.
• Salt and Pepper: The basics that bring all the flavors into harmony.
• Olive Oil (optional): Used for sautéing the onions and garlic to deepen their flavor.

Variations for Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Feel free to put your personal spin on this stuffed meatloaf, making it fit your taste buds, dietary preferences, or whatever you have on hand. It’s incredibly easy to adapt and experiment with different ingredients!

• Swap the Cheese: Use provolone, gouda, or pepper jack for a different melty center with unique flavor notes.
• Mix in Veggies: Add finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added nutrition and texture.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner twist, substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken without sacrificing taste.
• Spice it Up: Incorporate chili flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Glaze Alternatives: Try barbecue sauce or a balsamic glaze for a different finish on top.

How to Make Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

Start by heating olive oil in a pan and sautéing chopped onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions and garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until evenly combined but avoid overworking the meat for a tender result.

Step 2: Shape the Base Layer

On a large piece of parchment paper or a greased baking tray, spread half of the meat mixture into a rectangular shape about 1 inch thick. This will be the base of your meatloaf and support the mozzarella filling.

Step 3: Add the Mozzarella Filling

Layer the mozzarella evenly over the base meat layer, ensuring you leave a small border around the edges to prevent cheese from leaking during baking. Fresh mozzarella slices or shredded mozzarella work perfectly here.

Step 4: Top with Remaining Meat

Gently cover the mozzarella with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges well to encase the cheese completely. Press lightly to smooth the surface for even cooking.

Step 5: Glaze and Bake

Spread a generous layer of tomato sauce or ketchup atop the meatloaf to create a delicious glaze. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 60-75 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is nicely browned.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking—this locks in the juices and ensures cleaner slices. Then, slice carefully to reveal the melty mozzarella core and serve warm.

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

• Keep it Moist: Don’t overwork the meat mixture to maintain a tender texture.
• Cheese Placement: Make sure the mozzarella layer doesn’t touch the sides to prevent it from oozing out during baking.
• Uniform Shape: Shape the meatloaf evenly to promote thorough cooking and an appealing presentation.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
• Let it Rest: Resting helps the cheese settle inside and the juices redistribute for the best flavor.

How to Serve Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil on top add a pop of color and a fresh, vibrant aroma that balances the richness of the meatloaf.

Side Dishes

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad to complement the hearty flavors and add some contrast to the cheesy center.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the meatloaf thick and place on individual plates with a drizzle of extra tomato sauce or gravy. You can also serve it as sliders or in sandwiches for a fun twist on leftovers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover stuffed meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats well and retains its moisture and flavor when covered properly.

Freezing

Wrap the cooked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious cheesy center or texture.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) wrapped loosely in foil to prevent drying out, or microwave slices on medium power with a cover to maintain moisture and melty cheese.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese for the filling?

Absolutely! Mozzarella is classic for its meltiness, but cheeses like provolone, gouda, or pepper jack can add different flavors and textures.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to leave a small border of meat around the cheese and seal the edges well to keep the mozzarella enclosed during baking.

Is it better to use fresh or shredded mozzarella?

Both work well; fresh mozzarella offers a creamier texture while shredded melts quickly and is easier to distribute evenly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture while avoiding gluten.

How long does stuffed meatloaf typically take to bake?

It usually bakes for 60 to 75 minutes at 350°F (175°C), depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C) internally.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Meatloaf with Mozzarella is a real game-changer for homemade dinners, combining simplicity and indulgence in every bite. It’s a recipe that’s easy to make but impressive enough to share with family and friends. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite comfort food classic.

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